Find Your Place in San Diego County Parks

Thank you for your interest in volunteering or performing required service with the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation. People help care for parks, preserves, trails, campgrounds, community spaces, historic sites, and specialist events throughout San Diego County.

Whether you want to spend time outdoors, support community programs, protect natural and cultural resources, meet new people, build skills, or give back close to home, there may be a role that fits your interest, schedule, and location. When you find an opportunity that interests you, select it to learn more and begin the application process.

Looking for something specific?

• General volunteering and service: Search for opportunities on this page
• Court-ordered service: Review requirements and approved locations before enrolling.
• Campground and Park Host positions: View current residential host openings and program requirements
• Group and Corporate Events: Submit an interest enrollment form and schedule a meeting with us.
• Volunteer Vacations: Join multi-day stewardship projects that combine service, community, and the outdoors.

Questions? Contact Volunteer Services Division

• Email: parksvolunteer@sdcounty.ca.gov
• Phone: (858) 966-1335

Mission
We enhance the quality of life in San Diego County by providing exceptional parks and recreation experiences and preserving significant natural resources.

Vision
A parks and recreation system that is the pride of San Diego County.

Support San Diego County Parks!

Established in 1980, The San Diego County parks Society supports the goals, programs, and activities of San Diego County Parks and Recreation. Donations help fund environmental education programs, youth and community events, historic and cultural preservation, habitat restoration and conservation efforts, and support the dedicated volunteers who care for our parks. 

Your gift helps protect and enhance the parks we all love today and for generations to come.

Make a Donation! | Join the Parks Society!

The San Diego County Parks Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3), EIN #95-3655610, organization, ana all donations are tax-deductible. Contributions directly support educational, cultural, historical, and recreational programs, services, and initiatives.

Notice of Non-Discrimination on the Basis of Disability